Authorities Investigate Elizabeth Homicide

ELIZABETH — The Union County Homicide Task Force and the Elizabeth Police Department are investigating the fatal shooting of a city resident that occurred last night, Prosecutor Theodore J. Romankow announced.

Police were called to a gas station at the intersection of Pine and Third Street around 10p.m. yesterday evening. There they discovered Jose R. Garcia, 19, of Stiles Street, suffering from gunshot wounds. He was transported to Trinitas Hospital where he underwent surgery. He died around 1:30 p.m. today.

Authorities said that this is active investigation and detectives continue to examine evidence and take statements from potential witnesses. No arrests have been made thus far, and a motive for the shooting has not been established at this time, said Romankow. This is the county’s fifth homicide for the year and the third in Elizabeth.

Anyone with information that leads to the arrest and indictment of the person or persons responsible for Jose Garcia’s death is eligible for a cash reward of up to $5,000, officials said. Anonymous calls to Union County Crime Stoppers may be placed to 1-908-654-TIPS or online at www.uctip.org